DU Panel Split Over Dropping Political Science Papers on Islam, Pakistan, China

A Delhi University (DU) panel's decision to remove postgraduate Political Science elective papers on Islam, Pakistan, and China has sparked controversy, with members divided over whether the move promotes academic bias or national relevance.

At its Wednesday meeting, DU’s Standing Committee for Academic Matters voted to drop four elective papers: Islam and International Relations, Pakistan and the World, China’s Role in the Contemporary World, and State and Society in Pakistan. A fifth paper, Religious Nationalism and Political Violence, is set to be reviewed at the next meeting on July 1.

Dissenting Voices: "Censorship in Academia"

Committee member Professor Monami Sinha criticised the decision, warning it risks undermining critical thinking and diluting the syllabus of politically and academically significant issues.

“We argued that it is imperative to study Pakistan and China in detail. Ignoring these geopolitical realities would be academically short-sighted,” she said.

Sinha also expressed concern over the removal of references to caste, communal violence, and same-sex relationships in revised syllabi for Sociology and Geography.

Support for 'India-Centric' Curriculum

In contrast, Professor Harendra Tiwari defended the move, calling it a step towards removing ideological bias and making the syllabus “India-first.”

“Why only a paper on Islam and International Relations? Why not on Hinduism or Sikhism? We want a syllabus that serves students and our nation,” Tiwari told PTI.

He clarified that the dropped papers will not be reinstated unless the content aligns with a national perspective and offers balanced academic discourse.

The next committee meeting on July 1 is expected to witness further deliberations on what defines academic relevance in a changing political climate.

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